Can Insomnia and Sleep Apnea Coexist? Understanding the Connection

Learn how insomnia and sleep apnea can coexist, their shared risk factors, and how to manage both conditions effectively for better sleep health in this blog.

Introduction

Do you struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, only to find out you also have sleep apnea? Surprisingly, insomnia and obstructive

sleep apnea (OSA) often overlap—a phenomenon known as COMISA (Comorbid Insomnia and Sleep Apnea). Let’s unpack how these conditions are connected and how to manage them effectively.

What is Insomnia?

Insomnia is the difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. It often leads to daytime fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration.

Sleep Apnea Overview

OSA involves repeated airway collapse during sleep, causing breathing interruptions and oxygen drops. Symptoms include snoring, choking at night, and daytime sleepiness.

Can They Coexist?

Yes! Studies show that 30-50% of people with sleep apnea also experience insomnia symptoms. Risk factors include stress, obesity, anxiety, and poor sleep hygiene.

Impact on Health

• Chronic fatigue
• Mood disorders
• Higher risk of cardiovascular disease

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Polysomnography: Detects both insomnia patterns and OSA.
• CPAP Therapy: Addresses OSA, which may improve insomnia symptoms.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): A proven therapy for insomnia, even when OSA is present.

Lifestyle Tips for Better Sleep

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol near bedtime
• Practice relaxation techniques
• Treat underlying sleep apnea

Conclusion

If you experience both insomnia and sleep apnea, don’t ignore them. Getting evaluated and treated can help you regain energy, mood, and overall health.

By:

Dr. Jaykumar Mehta

MBBS (Gold Medallist)

MD; DNB; MNAMS

PD Fellow (Pulmonology)(CMC,Vellore)

Sr. Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist